The Guide to Selecting the Right Foot Massage Solutions for You

It is very important to take good care of your feet as they are the parts of your body that bear weight and helps you move around all day. Keep in mind that years of wear and tear can be difficult for them. That’s why it’s crucial to take good care of your feet and keep your blood flowing properly. There are various ways to keep your feet healthy, and one of the best ones is by getting regular foot massages. 

A foot massage helps ease tension in the muscles, control blood flow, and lessen stress on the feet. It involves working on the feet with pressure, either manually or by using mechanical aids to promote health and relaxation. Getting a professional foot massage from a spa is a great treat, but you can also opt for a do-it-yourself massage or simply a rubdown of your feet to ease the pain and relax. 

There are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to foot massage solutions. Sometimes, this makes it overwhelming and challenging for people to choose what will work best for them. If you are one of them, we are here to help you. In this post, we are giving you a guide to selecting the right foot massage solutions for you.

The Benefits of Foot Massage

The Benefits of Foot Massage

A foot massage can definitely make a long day better besides having a glass of wine. It can take away the stress from a long workday or the built-up anger of being stuck in rush hour traffic. After standing or walking for hours, a foot massage is one of the best things you can look forward to easing the swelling of your feet and tension underneath the skin. There are lots of claims when it comes to the benefits of a foot massage aside from the relaxation that it can provide. To learn more about these, below are some of them:

massaging foot

Helps Improve Blood Circulation

If you lack physical activity in your daily routine, this means that the muscles in your feet don’t always get the exercise they need. But even if you do not have a lot of time for physical activity, having a 10 to 20-minute foot massage before sleeping can help improve circulation. This is very important, especially for those who have diabetes. [1] 

Can Reduce the Risk of Injuries

Having regular foot massages can also help reduce the soreness of muscles and joint pain. If you combine it with stretching, you can potentially prevent any injuries that might occur in the future. In addition, it can also help speed up the recovery process from a previous injury. Even just a short massage session a few times a week will lessen the risk of an injury. [1] 

Lowers Blood Pressure

One of the causes of high blood pressure is stress, and it tends to be common in both men and women. There is actually no particular cause of high blood pressure, as it is thought to be the result of a person’s genetic or other environmental factors. This means that a foot massage can also help in lowering blood pressure as it can release stress and helps with relaxation. [1] 

Help Ease the Pain from Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis

People who have flat feet do not have a normal arch in their feet. It does not have any extreme effects on the body, but some people experience foot pain because of it. Plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, is one of the main causes of foot pain that affects the connective tissue that runs from the bottom of the foot to the arch. If there is an inflammation in the area or deterioration of the plantar, you can experience heel pain. But having a regular foot massage along with a deep massage can help ease the pain and encourage healing. [1] 

Promotes Better Sleep

Having a foot massage before sleeping can help you have a better sleep by relaxing the nerves, improving blood circulation, and allowing the body to unwind. In fact, even as little as four minutes of massage on each foot can encourage restful sleep. [2] 

The Different Types of Foot Massages

The Different Types of Foot Massages

If you are thinking of getting a foot massage soon, you need to learn that there are various types to choose from. When you visit a spa, you will be asked what kind of foot massage you want to experience. If you do not have any idea about what you should choose, read below to learn more about the different types of foot massages.

Swedish Foot Massage

doing a Swedish foot massage

A Swedish foot massage is among the most commonly practiced forms of massage. It is gentle and includes five various strokes, such as long strokes, tapping, kneading, deep, circular movements, and vibration, to energize and relax your feet. Most of the time, patients who are recovering from joint injuries may benefit from taking a Swedish foot massage. [3] 

Reflexology Foot Massage

performing reflexology 

Reflexology foot massage, as its name suggests, focuses on the reflex movements of the feet that assist in reducing pain in other parts of the body. It works by manipulating specific parts of the feet. Reflexology massage involves massage techniques applied to the calf, upper leg part, and foot.[3] 

Deep Tissue Foot Massage

a deep tissue foot massage

This type of foot massage involves slower and more forceful strokes, targeting the deeper muscle layers and connective tissue. It is a great type of foot massage for those who suffer from muscle damage because of chronic injuries, as well as stiff and painful joints.[3] 

Thai Foot Massage

a Thai foot massage

A Thai foot massage is a deep massage where the thumb is used to apply pressure along precise lines of the whole foot. It involves the application of pressure by the practitioner’s palm, thumb, finger, or elbow. Each point is pressed for five to ten seconds until the patient feels pain, and it is repeated five times. This type of foot massage might help improve blood circulation and enhance skin sensations at the bottom of the feet. Additionally, by enhancing the foot’s range of motion and feeling, it aids diabetes patients in maintaining their balance.[3] 

Sports Foot Massage

This is the type of foot massage that is most preferred by athletes. It involves various strokes and massages before and after they join hardcore sports events. A sports foot massage is quite similar to a Swedish massage. However, it is ideal for athletes to help them prevent injuries by increasing flexibility. Aside from that, this type of foot massage is also great for treating muscle strains and injuries.[3] 

Trigger Point Massage

This type of foot massage is also sometimes called neuromuscular therapy foot massage. It is great for those who are suffering from chronic pain in joints or limbs. It involves manipulating the soft tissues of the pain zone by treating the underlying causes of pain. This type of massage stimulates both the nervous system and muscular system. It also enhances blood circulation at the trigger points.[3] 

Different Techniques Involved in Foot Massage

Different Techniques Involved in Foot Massage

Foot massages also involve different methods, such as rubbing, stroking, pressing, and manipulating muscles in a specific manner using the fingers. But there are also various techniques, and below are some examples:

therapist massaging foot

Traditional Therapeutic Techniques

These techniques focus on relaxing the muscles and joints to ease the pain. They are manual massage techniques that stimulate the muscles, incite relaxation, and increase circulation by using friction, gliding movements, wringing, squeezing, and kneading of soft tissues.[3]

Soft-Tissue Release

This type of foot massage technique involves a precise extension and specific compression done in a systematic method to release muscle spasms and scar tissues.[3] 

Acupressure

The goal of this massage technique is to increase energy flow and overall health by applying pressure to specific pressure spots. Using fingers on the skin’s surface, this Asian healing technique presses specific points to regulate the movement of energy through the chakras and meridians.[3] 

Aromatherapy

This foot massage technique uses scented oils along with some relaxing music in the background. These serve as relaxation elements that act upon various senses.[3]

Reflexology

This is a foot massage technique that seeks to improve internal organ function by massaging certain areas of the feet, exerting firm pressure on certain points.[3] 

Myotherapy

This technique is also called trigger-point therapy. It involves the application of alternating pressure over the area of muscle spasm. It can feel a bit painful for the first time, but it also relieves the pre-existing pain after a while. To apply pressure, knuckles, elbows, and fingers can be used.[3] 

Foot Massagers You Can Use at Home

Foot Massagers You Can Use at Home

In addition to visiting a spa to get a foot massage, you can also have it done at home through the use of devices called massagers. These are beneficial for those who always experience achy or painful feet. A home foot massager can provide easy and incredible relief in the comfort of your own home. Below are some of the best foot massagers that you can use at home:

person using a foot massager

Basic Foot Massagers

Basic or manual foot massagers are probably the simplest types of foot massagers that you can buy today. They do not require any electricity or battery to work. They are very easy to use, and you can also bring them with you anywhere you go to provide relief to your feet. Below are some examples of basic foot massagers to help you choose:

person using a basic foot massager/roller

  • TheraFlow Foot Massager Roller: This foot massager roller has two different types of acupressure numbs, and it has five rows. It has an arched design that mirrors the natural curvature of the feet. It is a great foot massager for those who have plantar fasciitis. Aside from tackling sore feet, it also stimulates blood circulation. It is a great choice if you want to relax and destress your feet after a long day at work.
  • BYRIVER Plantar Fasciitis Relief Foot Massager Slippers: These are therapeutic massage slippers that are great for those that have plantar fasciitis. These massage slippers claim to help improve circulation and relieve lower back pain, foot pain, migraine, arthritis, and neuropathy when they are used regularly. Each slipper has 39 built-in massage buttons for foot acupuncture stimulation massage. 
  • Dual Foot Massager: This is a premium foot massage roller that is made of ABS plastic and soft rubber. It is easy to use and does not need batteries or charging. It is a 2-in-1 foot massager that has ten rollers and 44 acupressure nubs. It also has two massage modes, which are rolling massage and acupressure massage. It is lightweight and portable, allowing you to take it with you when you travel.
  • Ryson Foot Roller Massage Ball: These roller and massage balls are used to massage tired and achy feet, as well as those who have plantar fasciitis. To use these, you just need to roll your feet on them a few times a day to treat muscle spasms, relieve pain and pressure, and release tight and knotted muscles.

Shiatsu Foot Massagers

person using an electric foot massager

Shiatsu foot massagers work by manipulating pressure points along the foot, covering the soles and in-step along with the top and side. These feature pulsating massage that mimics the hand and finger pressing movements of a professional masseuse. They are effective when it comes to relieving foot pain, which includes both nerve pain and muscle soreness. Below are some examples of shiatsu foot massagers to help you pick:

  • Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine: This foot massager machine is very easy to use. It features a deep kneading shiatsu technique to help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and stimulate muscle recovery. It also has an adjustable base, allowing you to use it to massage the muscles of your feet, ankles, or calves. It has three levels of intensity that range from gentle to strong. 
  • TERELAX Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager: This foot massager features three modes, which are automatic, custom, and manual, along with seven preset programs. It comes with a smart remote control, making it easier to use. It has an ergonomic and comfortable design that simulates a human palm. It can help relieve foot stiffness, muscle fatigue, and promote blood circulation that helps improve sleep quality.

Heated Foot Massagers

There are also a lot of foot massagers in the market today that feature a heat function. They provide users a choice to use the heating function, which aids in improving blood circulation and relaxation. Below are some examples of heated foot massagers to help you choose:

  • Breo Foot Massager Machine with Heat: This foot massager machine involves kneading, compression, rolling, scraping, and heating function. It is a reflexology massager that stimulates the nerves and improves blood circulation to relax sore, tired, and achy feet after all day of working and standing. It has an optional heating function. Its temperature slowly increases from 104°F to 122°F in three to five minutes.
  • Neuksso Foot Massager with Adjustable Heating Levels: This foot massager has a handheld controller. It also has a 2-in-1 design that can be used as a back massager or a heating pad. It has two massage modes with switchable rotation directions. It also provides three adjustable heating levels, which you can select based on your tolerance. Its cover is detachable and washable. 
  • Nekteck Foot Massager with Heat: This foot massager features six massage heads and 18 rotating massager nodes. It can help relax muscles, ease tensions, and regulate blood flow. It has a heating function that helps relieve fatigued muscles and improve foot wellness. The heat function is also optional and can be turned off if you do not want to use it. 

Air Compression Foot Massagers

a foot massager with air compression

Aside from foot massagers that use rolling or moving nodes, there are also foot massagers that utilize air compression to massage the feet. Most of the time, they provide cyclic air compression around the feet and calves to loosen stiff muscles, relieve fatigue, and improve circulation. Below are some examples of air compression foot massagers to help you pick:

  • TISSCARE Foot Massager with 8 Air Bags: This foot massager features squeezing bags that work through air compression to soothe sore and tired feet and to improve blood circulation. It can provide a deep kneading shiatsu massage at a comfortable angle. It is also equipped with a remote control, making it more convenient to use.
  • Podiatrist v3 Foot Massager with Air Pressure: This foot massager is designed by podiatrists. It uses various massage techniques, such as shiatsu, kneading, pushing, rolling, twisting, and air pressure. It also has adjustable angles, allowing you to use it in a comfortable position. It also offers three different massage settings with three levels of intensity and ultra-soft heat therapy. 
  • CINCOM Air Compression Foot Massager: This foot massager provides cyclic air compression around the feet and calves to loosen stiff muscles, improve circulation, and relieve fatigue. It has two massage modes and three intensities. It also has size-adjustable leg wraps that can reach up to the calves for maximum relaxation. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Foot Massager

person using a simple foot massager

If you are thinking of buying a foot massager soon, below are some of the important factors that you might want to consider in order to find the best one that will cater to your needs:

Massage Methods

Foot massagers use a number of modes and methods to soothe tired and sore feet. These include manual massage, shiatsu massage, air compression, and more. There are machines that use a combination of these techniques. However, among those techniques, shiatsu is probably the most similar to a massage that you would receive from human hands. A lot of foot massagers also offer different patterns and intensities to suit your personal preferences.[4] Therefore, when buying a foot massager, check what massage methods it can offer and if those methods are what you are searching for.

Heat

A lot of foot massagers also use heat to increase their effectiveness and provide more relaxation. Therefore, it would be great if you could find foot massagers that offer adjustable heat settings to ensure that you are going to have a comfortable experience. Manual massagers do not offer this function. With this, you need to evaluate whether the convenience of a portable massager is worth losing the power of heat.[4] 

Controls

Most foot massagers have a control pad mounted to the machine. But if you are looking for more convenience, you should opt for foot massagers that come with remote control. This way, you no longer need to lean forward to adjust the speed or intensity of the foot massager machine to avoid a major interruption to your relaxation. But if you do not mind pausing to adjust the settings, getting a massager without a remote control might work fine for you.[4]  

Conclusion

Getting a foot massage is indeed one of the relaxing things that you can do after a long day at work or if you are suffering from foot pains. It is a very effective way of reducing the stress and fatigue that your feet feel after walking or standing for long hours. Since there are many different types of foot massage and foot massage devices available today, you can surely find a massage solution that will work best for you and will cater to your needs. Whether you are looking for pain relief or simple relaxation after a tiring day, you can never go wrong with opting for a foot massage. We hope this post helped you learn more about selecting the right foot massage solutions for you.

References

[1] Foot Specialists of Birmingham. (2021, March 9). Five benefits of foot massages: What to think about. Foot Specialists of Birmingham. Retrieved November 28, 2022, from https://bhamfoot.com/the-benefits-of-foot-massages-some-of-them-might-surprise-you/

[2] Aubrey, C. (2021, September 4). The 9 benefits of foot massage you might not know about. Discover Massage Australia. Retrieved November 28, 2022, from https://www.discovermassage.com.au/blog/the-9-benefits-of-foot-massage-you-might-not-know-about/

[3] Ramaswamy, D. (2016, June 6). Foot massage – types, techniques, benefits. Medindia. Retrieved November 28, 2022, from https://www.medindia.net/patients/lifestyleandwellness/foot-massage.htm#2

[4] Earley, B. (2022, June 14). The 9 best foot massagers of 2022. The Spruce. Retrieved November 28, 2022, from https://www.thespruce.com/best-foot-massagers-4153817